At Kate Ford Events we are often known for planning astounding weddings, but what you might not know is we also plan corporate events. Planning a corporate event is quite different from planning a wedding, though there are some overlapping elements. Here’s some of the main distinctions between the two:

1. Purpose and Audience

• Corporate Event: The purpose is typically professional—whether it’s a conference, team-building event, gala, product launch, or holiday party. The audience is usually made up of employees, clients, vendors, or industry professionals. The tone is often more formal, business-focused, and goal-oriented.
• Wedding: A wedding is a personal and emotional event, typically for the couple and their loved ones. The purpose is to celebrate the union of two people, with a focus on personal connection, tradition, and often, social or cultural customs. The guest list is generally made up of close family and friends.

2. Budget and Scope

• Corporate Event: Corporate events can have a wide range of budgets, but there’s often more flexibility in terms of choosing a venue, entertainment, and catering, especially if the company is paying. Because there tends to be less emotion involved when planning corporate events the phrase I keep in mind is “rob Peter to pay Paul” which means, you can always take from one area to cover in another area. While budgets tend to be less flexible in terms of growth, there is more freedom and flexibility in the amount of what needs to go into them. The scope might also be larger, with more emphasis on branding, networking opportunities, and professionalism.
• Wedding: Weddings can be a financial strain depending on the couple’s preferences and budget. They may be more focused on personal style, catering to guests’ enjoyment, and capturing memories. Wedding budgets tend to be driven by emotional decisions and the sentiment of needing more or to spend on multiple elements, which is why we often see budgets grow in size throughout the planning process. 
• One additional note: Part of the reason that budgets grow more for weddings is that often times couples/families are setting budgets without prior knowledge of what a wedding costs. Most people are planning a wedding for the first time. Whereas often corporate events are planned with a budget in mind and based on information from other events planned in the past. Many companies will look at historical spends on other events/celebrations and then account for growth, inflation, and scope. 

3. Theme and Atmosphere

• Corporate Event: The theme is often aligned with the company’s branding, goals, or event objectives. For example, a tech company might have a modern, cutting-edge theme for a product launch, while a nonprofit might focus on a more philanthropic atmosphere. The atmosphere is typically more neutral and professional, though creative or casual corporate events might have a relaxed vibe.
• Wedding: The theme is highly personal to the couple, often involving elements of their tastes, culture, and personal stories. Themes could range from rustic to glamorous, vintage to modern. The atmosphere is typically more celebratory, intimate, and emotional, with a focus on joy and love.

4. Logistics and Timing

• Corporate Event: Logistics are often more complex and multifaceted, particularly if the event spans multiple days or involves intricate technology setups, keynote speakers, workshops, or live-streaming. Timing is typically strict, and there’s often a structured agenda that must be followed closely to ensure professional delivery.
• Wedding: While wedding logistics can be complex, especially for larger weddings, they are generally less rigid in terms of timing, with the day unfolding more naturally. While there is a schedule (for ceremony, speeches, first dance, etc.), it’s not as formalized or constrained as a corporate event’s agenda.

5. Vendors and Services

• Corporate Event: Vendors for corporate events tend to be professional services that cater to a business audience, like AV companies, event coordinators, catering for large groups, guest speakers, and entertainment that suits a wide range of attendees. The quality of service needs to reflect the professional nature of the event.
• Wedding: Wedding vendors are often more specialized, including florists, photographers, DJs, and wedding planners who understand the emotional and personalized nature of the event. There’s a focus on creating an unforgettable, intimate experience tailored to the couple’s wishes.

6. Guest Experience

• Corporate Event: The focus is often on networking, industry insights, and providing value to attendees. There may be more focus on structured interactions, such as sessions, panels, or presentations, and less emphasis on individual guest experience compared to a wedding.
• Wedding: The focus is on personal guest experiences, with guests often included in every part of the day. It’s about ensuring everyone feels celebrated and part of the couple’s special moment, from the ceremony to the reception.

7. Branding vs. Personalization

• Corporate Event: The event is a reflection of the company’s brand identity. This could involve branded materials, logos, and even the way the event is structured, with a focus on delivering the company’s message or vision.
• Wedding: The focus is entirely on the couple. The personalization often includes custom vows, themed décor, and personal touches like a unique wedding favor or personalized seating arrangements.

8. Speeches and Programming

• Corporate Event: Programming often includes speeches, presentations, panels, and sometimes training or breakout sessions. The tone can vary, but it remains professional and sometimes formal.
• Wedding: Speeches at a wedding are usually more emotional—best man, maid of honor, parents, and sometimes the couple themselves share heartfelt moments, toasts, or stories. The entertainment tends to be lighter, with dancing, music, and games.

9. Aftermath and Follow-Up

• Corporate Event: After the event, there’s often a focus on gathering feedback, reviewing event success, or following up with participants. For events like conferences, the outcome is measured by attendee satisfaction, business impact, or knowledge gained.
• Wedding: Post-wedding, the couple is typically focused on thank-yous to guests, sharing photos or videos, and reflecting on the event. While there may be some follow-up (e.g., sending out thank-you cards), the post-event focus is more on personal memories than on any measurable success.

10. Legal/Compliance Issues

• Corporate Event: Corporate events often have legal or compliance considerations—especially in industries with strict guidelines or for events held in certain locations. For example, safety regulations, accessibility needs, or contracts with sponsors or vendors may require attention.
• Wedding: Weddings generally don’t have the same legal or compliance requirements, except for matters like obtaining a marriage license or ensuring the venue meets safety regulations.

Kate Ford Events has had the honor of planning corporate events for companies like Driscoll’s Berries, Crewe Cup, Monterey County Hospitality Association, and more we would be honored to help your business host your next event.